Parent Information
Whether you’re just beginning to evaluate colleges or you’re ready to compare a few final contenders, these are the top things you need to know about Clemson.
Carnegie R1 Research Institution
At Clemson, we pride ourselves on being a Carnegie R1 Research Institution. This means we are classified as one of the most productive research institutions in the United States. And it means our daily work moves outside the hills of Upstate South Carolina to improve lives across America and the world.
Key Clemson Academic Offerings
- Access to the world’s leading researchers in undergraduate classes
- High emphasis on experiential learning ensures your student gains knowledge and practical skills in their field.
- We empower undergraduates to participate in research beginning their first year through Creative Inquiry and Undergraduate Research.

Perennially Ranked Best Career Services
- No. 11 Best Career Services
The Princeton Review, 2025
Ninety-five percent of graduates are employed (full-time, part-time, service, Armed Forces) continuing education, planning to continue education or are not seeking employment within six months of graduation.
Clemson University’s on-campus Center for Career and Professional Development offers resume assistance, interview skill workshops, networking events and many more resources to ensure your student receives the support they need to achieve their post-graduation goals.
Key Clemson University Career Development Offerings:
- Direct connections to industry hiring managers
- Over 1,000 on-campus internship opportunities for undergraduate students
- Half of Fortune 500 companies actively recruit on campus.
- Nationally leading co-op and internship programs
Value and Affordability
- 4 out of 5 stars for value,
Money magazine, 2025
We understand that the cost of a Clemson education is a significant consideration for families. We are recognized as a best value college by The Princeton Review and Money magazine, and we strive to make a world-class education accessible and affordable, beginning with students in South Carolina.
Key Value and Affordability Information:
- Ninety-nine percent of first-time in-state students receive state scholarships.
- Most Clemson graduates (56 percent) have no debt compared to the state (40 percent) and national (39 percent) averages.
- In Fall 2023, in-state first-year students paid an average of 37 percent of tuition and fees.
- Our dedicated financial aid counselors work with families to ensure they make the best financial decision for their student’s college journey.
- Common career areas and median salaries can be found on each program’s page.

Unparalleled Quality of Life
- No. 18 Best Quality of Life
The Princeton Review, 2025 - No. 10 Friendliest Students
The Princeton Review, 2025
At Clemson, we strive to provide students with the No. 1 student experience. It’s as simple as that. Life on our campus is vibrant and full of opportunities to grow in academic, athletic, artistic and adventurous pursuits. There’s always something happening in Tigertown, but our corner of the Upstate moves at a comfortable pace. We enjoy a small-town feel with easy access to larger cities in Charlotte and Atlanta.
Key Campus Life Amenities:
- Ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts with campus touching Lake Hartwell and more than 17,500 acres of protected forest beside the Blue Ridge Mountains
- Community-minded student body with more than 600 student clubs and organizations
- Mental health is prioritized with clinical, counseling and community-oriented mental health resources made available to all students